‘We travel to Gombe, Plateau for treatment’ — Bauchi residents lament experience with snakes

Residents of Duguri community in Alkaleri local government area of Bauchi, say they have to travel outside their state to receive treatment for snake bites.

Adamu Suleiman, secretary of Duguri ward development committee, on Wednesday, said the community has recorded about 42 snake bites between May and November 2020, which has resulted in five deaths.

Suleiman noted that snakes have threatened the existence of residents of the community, as they have become rampant in the community.

According to NAN, he attributed the abundance of snakes in the community to its closeness to the Yankari national park, adding that the problem has persisted despite the fumigation of the community by authorities.

“From May to November 2020, five persons died after snake bites and they arrived late at the hospital, while 37 persons were diagnosed and treated in hospitals in Gombe and Plateau,” Suleiman said.

“Other cases were treated by traditional healers.

“Farmers have resorted to using rain boots, hand gloves and eye glasses to protect themselves while on the farm and residents are vigilant at home.”

He disclosed that victims of snake bites are taken to Plateau or Gombe state for treatment, and called on the state government to commence clinical services in the community.

“Victims of snake bites have to travel to either Plateau or Kaltungo in Gombe state for treatment,” he said.

Rabi Duguri, a victim of snake bite, told NAN that she was on a farm when she was bitten by a snake and it was after three days when the venom had circulated that she received treatment.

“I was in the farm and something bit me, not knowing that it was a snake until after three days, by which time the venom has circulated in my body,” Duguri said.

“So far, we have spent N200,000 for treatment within eight weeks, but the venom is still much in my system.

“I am calling on the government and good people of Bauchi state to help me as my leg is already peeling away.”

Also, Ado Saleh, another victim, said he spent N38,000 on treatment in Plateau.